While people with higher income levels are generally more able to sustain a daily cocaine habit, they’re not the only ones at risk for developing a strong addiction to the drug. Other than methamphetamines, cocaine is widely considered to be the greatest psychologically addictive drug available. It’s possible to become addicted after your first experience. If you’re concerned that you or a loved one might be addicted to cocaine, here are some of the people at greater risk for using the drug and some of the warning signs of addiction.

How Many People Are Using Cocaine?

14% of Americans admit to having tried cocaine at least once in their lifetime. By the time they’ve reached 12th grade, nearly 10% of high school seniors have experimented with the drug. This is especially concerning because people who use drugs at earlier ages are more likely to develop issues with addiction later in life. Young men (ages 18-25) are the most likely to have used within the past year, and one in 40 Americans reported using in that same time frame.

What Kinds of Conditions Make Cocaine Use More Likely?

People who develop issues with cocaine addiction are often experiencing mental health issues like depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, gambling disorders or alcoholism. When someone has two or more conditions like these, we refer to that as co-occurring disorders. It’s imperative that you receive treatment for all these issues concurrently, as treating only one leads to significant relapse rates.

Those who have some direct genetic link—a parent or sibling—who has struggled with addiction are much more likely to develop substance abuse issues. Cocaine addiction in particular is more common among people who feel pressure to be high performers in school or work life.

Warning Signs That Someone Is Using Cocaine

Since the highs are relatively short (15-30 minutes), cocaine binges can become common. The more you use, the stronger and faster the addiction takes hold. If you’re worried that a loved one is using cocaine, look for these warning signs of use and addiction:

Restlessness or hyperactivity

Irritability

Anxiety

Paranoia

Increased blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature

Dilated pupils

Nosebleeds

Sleeping long hours

Treatment for Cocaine Addiction in Lancaster, CA and Las Vegas, NV

When you’re ready to break free from cocaine addiction, Cycles of Change Recovery Services is here to help you. Depending on how long and how much you used, your withdrawal symptoms may vary in severity. While unassisted cocaine withdrawal isn’t usually life-threatening, it can lead to higher rates of relapse or overdose. Our compassionate team genuinely cares about your recovery, and we will do everything we can to reduce your pain and discomfort during the detoxification process.

With our residential rehabilitation programs in Palmdale, California and Las Vegas, Nevada, you can recover in comfort. You’ll receive the tools you need for continued success, so you can keep making positive lifestyle changes. Take the first step on this recovery journey and talk to one of our addiction experts today.